| At a glance: GABAergic agents |
Type of therapy
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Medical
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The claim
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Helps reduce undesirable behaviours such as anxiety, panic, hyperactivity and aggression
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Suitable for
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People who have difficulties with impulse control, including children and adolescents with ASD
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Research rating
Find out more about this rating system in our FAQs. |
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Warnings
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 |
Barbiturates are not usually prescribed, because they have the potential to become addictive. Benzodiazepine use can increase behavioural disturbances in children with autism, or cause cognitive ‘dulling’ – for example, memory impairment or lack of motor coordination. |
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Time
Estimate of the total time for family in hours per week and duration. |
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Little time is needed to take the medication, but treatment might be ongoing. |
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Cost
Estimate of cost to family per session/item or week. |
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The cost depends on the class of medication, but is under $35 per script filled. |
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About this intervention
What is it?
GABA stands for gamma-aminobutyric acid, which is a neurotransmitter. GABAergic agents are medications that affect the level of GABA in the brain. Example medications include barbiturates and benzodiazepines.
Who is it for?
GABAergic agents can be used by people who suffer anxiety, including people with autism.
What is it used for?
GABAergic agents are usually used to treat anxiety, panic disorders and seizure disorders.
Where does it come from?
In the 1950s, scientists discovered that GABA is an important chemical in the central nervous system. GABAergic agents were developed to treat conditions related to the central nervous system, including the overactive ‘fight or flight’ response involved in anxiety and panic disorders.
The connection between GABAergic agents and autism has been studied since the late 1980s.
What is the idea behind it?
Some researchers think an increase in certain types of brain activity leads to symptoms such as panic and anxiety. The idea is that GABAergic agents reduce brain activity by stimulating GABA production, and that this helps people cope with feelings of anxiety and panic.
Children with autism often experience physical tension and anxiety, as well as decreased pain responses. It is thought that using GABAergic agents in children with autism can control these symptoms and reduce aggression and impulsive behaviour.
What does it involve?
This therapy involves taking oral medication on a daily basis. The specific medication and dosage will depend on each child’s symptoms.
A specialist medical practitioner such as a psychiatrist should monitor a child taking GABAergic agents. Your child will need regular appointments with this practitioner.
Cost considerations
The cost of GABAergic agents is ongoing, and varies depending on:
- the type of medication used (that is, the specific brand of drug)
- whether the drug is covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
- the drug dose or strength
- whether the consumer holds a concession card, such as a Health Care Card.
Does it work?
This therapy has not yet been rated.
Barbiturates are not usually prescribed, because they have the potential to become addictive. Using benzodiazepines can increase behavioural disturbances in children with autism, or cause cognitive ‘dulling’ – for example, memory impairment and lack of motor coordination.
Who practises this method?
GABAergic agents must be prescribed by a general practitioner, paediatrician or child psychiatrist.
These professionals can also give you information about the potential benefits and risks of using GABAergic agents.
Parent education, training, support and involvement
Parents need to:
- ensure their child takes the medication as required
- monitor its effects and side effects
- arrange follow-up visits with their child’s doctor to review the medication plan.
Where can I find a practitioner?
Your child’s GP can refer you to a paediatrician or child psychiatrist if required. Your state autism association might be able to give you contact details of an appropriate medical professional with expertise in ASD.
